How to Become a Professional Disc Jockey

Disc jockeys should be familiar with radio shows.

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According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, becoming a professional disc jockey is difficult mainly because there are not many such jobs available. In addition, to be a good disc jockey, you have to have more than a love for radio. You have to have an attractive, powerful voice; a bold and often theatrical personality; and sometimes an intimate knowledge of a specific kind of music.

Related Searches:Difficulty:Moderately ChallengingInstructions 1

Get a college degree; the Bureau Labor Statistics recommends majoring in broadcast journalism. Take classes in theater, communications and writing in high school and college. Take an impromptu class or join such a group to practice the ad-libbing you will have to do on air. Practice writing and performing speeches to hone your public communication skills. Begin to study the type of music you would most enjoy playing, like pop, country or classic rock. Your college may have classes on such musical styles, or you may need to do a self-study. Learn things like history and musical style.

2

Apply to work on your high school or college's radio station. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, most radio stations want you to have at least some experience before they will hire you, and many people get that experience through serving on high school and college radio stations. Even if you aren't hired, ask if you can volunteer. Volunteer your time at a local radio station, as well, or look for internships at small stations in your area.

3

Get a job at a radio station or at a music store. While you won't likely be offered a disc jockey position right out of college, you may be able to get an assistant job at a radio station. Learn as much as you can about how the station operates. In addition, stay abreast of the changes that are occurring in the music industry by working at a music store, becoming a music blogger or writing music reviews for a website or magazine, even if they are on a volunteer basis. The more experience you have in the music and radio industry, the more likely you will be to get a job when there is an opening.

4

Make contacts in the radio business. Go to conventions, and take the time to get to know the people you work with. Listen to a variety of radio shows, and write letters asking to meet your favorite personalities. If you are a new graduate with hopes of entering the radio broadcasting field, they may be willing to meet with you. Keep in contract with these people, and periodically ask them if they know of any openings.

Tips & Warnings

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that as more and more radio stations close, fewer disc jockey jobs are available. For the available jobs, competition is steep. However, the BLS also notes that it is easier to get into smaller stations if you have some experience, like the experience you can get working at a school radio station.

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